Shaquille O’Neal Discusses Distance from NBA Players and Focus on Education

O’Neal told the New York Post he denounced himself from being a celebrity about 10 years ago, describing such people as weird.

He stated he no longer associates with NBA players and does not text any NBA star past or present. O’Neal mentioned that when he visits Times Square to see the tech superstore tm:rw, where he is an investor and partner, he keeps a low profile. He arrives with two companions, handles business, signs autographs, and treats people with honor and respect.

Pursuits O’Neal, 54, holds a bachelor’s degree in arts, an MBA, and a PhD in education from Barry University, earned in 2012.

He addressed misconceptions that the PhD was honorary, explaining he attended school, wrote papers, and completed requirements. The Louisiana State University alumnus, who left after his junior year for the NBA but later completed his bachelor’s, is currently pursuing a master’s in liberal arts.

He earned the PhD to set an example for his six children and young fans, stressing that education is important even for successful individuals.

O’Neal discussed the value of education in managing money, particularly in the context of student-athletes using their name, image, or likeness to earn income.

Connections O’Neal, a four-time NBA champion with a net worth of $500 million, invests in ventures he believes in and that can change lives, rather than solely for monetary gain.

He recently invested in the tech superstore tm:rw and has developed two residential high-rises in Newark, valued at more than $230 million combined. He initiated the real estate investments after seeing the neighborhood’s condition and his mother’s emotional response, aiming to restore its beauty.

played in the NBA for 19 seasons and is a Hall of Famer.